Description
Learn how to make delicious baked chicken with our ultimate guide. Perfect for family dinners and special occasions!
Ingredients
Scale
Ingredients List
- Chicken Pieces:
- 4 pounds chicken pieces (breasts, thighs, drumsticks)
- Marinade:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 2 teaspoons dried herbs (thyme, rosemary)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Chicken
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Mix the Marinade: In a mixing bowl, combine olive oil, minced garlic, lemon juice, paprika, dried herbs, salt, and pepper.
- Marinate the Chicken: Place the chicken pieces in the bowl and coat them evenly with the marinade. Let them sit for at least 30 minutes to absorb the flavors.
2. Bake the Chicken
- Arrange the Chicken: Place the marinated chicken pieces on a baking dish or sheet pan in a single layer.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) as measured with a meat thermometer.
- Baste Occasionally: Baste the chicken with the juices from the pan every 10 minutes to keep it moist and flavorful.
3. Rest and Serve
- Rest the Chicken: Remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat.
- Garnish and Serve: Garnish with fresh herbs if desired and serve with your favorite side dishes.
Notes
- Achieving Juicy and Flavorful Chicken
Marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes to infuse it with flavor and keep it juicy. Basting the chicken with the pan juices during baking also helps maintain moisture.
- Using a Meat Thermometer
Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the chicken. This ensures it is cooked to perfection without being overdone.
- Resting the Chicken
Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after baking to allow the juices to redistribute. This results in a juicier and more flavorful dish.